EducationProtests – Kharge Targets Modi Over Student Protests and Exam Crisis Response
EducationProtests –Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday intensified his criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing the Union government of mishandling concerns over examination irregularities and responding harshly to students who took to the streets in protest. The opposition party also renewed its demand for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, while seeking an apology from the prime minister over the police action against demonstrators.
Congress Questions Government’s Handling of Student Protests
Responding to the prime minister’s remarks on safeguarding the future of young people, Kharge alleged that the education system had weakened under the current administration. In a post on X, he claimed that students protesting against examination-related issues were met with force instead of meaningful engagement.
According to Kharge, young demonstrators faced police action, including baton charges and other measures, despite raising concerns about alleged irregularities in competitive examinations. He urged the prime minister to directly acknowledge the grievances of students instead of relying on public assurances.
Three Demands Raised by the Opposition
The Congress chief said the party was standing by three key demands that it believes are necessary to restore confidence among students. These include the immediate removal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a public apology from Prime Minister Modi over the action taken against protesters, and justice for those who were allegedly subjected to excessive force during the demonstrations.
Kharge argued that these measures were essential to address public anger over the examination controversy and rebuild trust in the education system.
Allegations Over Education and Employment
Beyond the protests, Kharge also criticised the broader state of education and employment in the country. He alleged that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) had gained excessive influence over the education sector and questioned the government’s approach to academic institutions.
The Congress president further expressed concern over youth employment, claiming that unemployment among young people remained high while opportunities in both the private and public sectors had become increasingly limited. He said that contractual employment was expanding, leaving many young job seekers uncertain about their future prospects.
Venugopal Calls Government Response Inadequate
Congress general secretary K. C. Venugopal also criticised the government’s response, describing the prime minister’s latest announcement as insufficient to address the concerns raised by students.
He maintained that the opposition’s position had not changed and reiterated that the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, an apology from the prime minister, and action against those responsible for the alleged assault on peaceful protesters remained the party’s primary demands.
Venugopal argued that the youth expected accountability rather than announcements, adding that the ongoing protests reflected deeper concerns about the credibility of examination processes.
Prime Minister Announces Fast-Track Courts
Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue of paper leaks amid continuing protests linked to the NEET examination controversy. In a message posted on X, he said the government would establish fast-track courts to ensure quicker trials and strict punishment for those found guilty of involvement in examination paper leaks.
The prime minister stressed that protecting the interests and future of young people remained a top priority for the government. He stated that individuals attempting to undermine students’ futures through paper leak offences would face stringent legal action.
The exchange of statements highlights the widening political confrontation over examination integrity and the government’s response to student protests. With the opposition continuing to press for accountability and the Centre promising tougher action against those responsible for paper leaks, the issue is expected to remain at the centre of the national political debate.